Thiruvananthapuram: The UGC (University Grants Commission) will soon amend its laws giving complete authority to the Chancellor to appoint Vice-Chancellors in universities across the country. The amendment is being done by taking into consideration the constant controversies over the appointments of VCs in universities including those in Kerala.

The amendment is expected to clear up ‘grey areas’ surrounding the VC appointments.

In Kerala, it is the Governor who is currently functioning as the Chancellor. The VC appointments are being made in accordance with the UGC Act introduced in 2018. Amidst the ongoing conflict between the Kerala Governor and the state government, it was also widely alleged the UGC Act was in violation to the university rules. Hence, delaying the VC appointments.

Thus UGC has decided to amend the acts accordingly. The decision on appointment of VC will continue to rest with the Chancellor as is the practice now. 

The current Act

  • There is no clear specification regarding how many members shall be present in the Search committee. There is growing demand for appointing a person with enough expertise in higher education in the council. There is also a suggestion that a person recommended by the UGC chairman shall be present in the council.
  • No person with any connection with the particular university in which the VC is being appointed shall be present in the Search committee. There is no rule mandating the presence of a senate representative. The senate representative is inducted in the Search committees as per the rules of the particular university.
  • There is no ruling regarding who has the authority to form the Search committee.

Amendment

  • Suggestion for a five-member Search committee will be put forth. Apart from the UGC representative, clear-cut instructions will be given on who else shall be in the Search committee. Hence, a proper structure will be brought in place.
  • The rule that those having connections with the university shall not be included in the Search committee will be maintained. The appointment of senate representatives will be made mandatory.
  • The Chancellor will be given the authority to constitute the Search committee by including members from different fields.